What Are The Cannabis Shakes And Why Do They Happen?

Ever started shaking uncontrollably after smoking a large amount of weed? Well, you're not alone. The "cannabis shakes" have numerous causes and are most likely nothing to worry about.

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1 Feb 2018

Cannabis is a phenomenally safe psychoactive substance with no lethal overdoses connected to its exclusive use. It is non-toxic, and it is very rare that a user will overdose and become sick from using the herb. The most common side effects are entirely harmless and include ravenous hunger, dry mouth, and the tendency to doze off to sleep. However, there is another side effect that is less common, and far less enjoyable.

Have you ever been relaxing, enjoying a smoking session with your friends, and suddenly felt parts of your body begin to shake uncontrollably? Well, it turns out you weren’t tripping, and you aren’t alone if this has ever happened. Shaking after consuming cannabis, or “the shakes”, seems to occur in quite a few people for varying reasons. Although it can seem uncomfortable and even concerning, it’s mostly harmless and subsides almost as quickly as it began.

Although this phenomenon seems very strange, there is more than likely a logical reason why it happened to you. There are numerous causes behind the notorious shakes, and even ways to stop them in their tracks if you ever feel them come for a visit.

So, what exactly causes them? There is no specific research that has been conducted to make sense of what happens or why. However, logical, anecdotal conclusions can be drawn.

ANXIETY

The medicinal properties of cannabis are becoming increasingly well-known, and it appears to assist with a tremendous amount of conditions. Its use for easing anxiety is recognised, however too much of a good thing is certainly true here. Smoking too much THC-rich cannabis, or even small amounts for sensitive individuals, can start to ignite the fight or flight response and make people extremely anxious.

Trembling within various parts of the body is associated with anxiety. Regions such as the hands, feet, back, and head may feel as though they are shaking. If you experience this after or during a heavy session, it’s probably because you have simply smoked way too much. Ceasing from smoking anymore in the near future may help bring your reaction down. Deep breathing exercises and some fresh outdoor air may also be of assistance.

If you are smoking around new people and suddenly feel nervous, these shakes could actually be more due to social anxiety. Stepping outside and taking time to collect yourself is probably the best option in this scenario.

STIMULANTS

In many parts of the world, it is common to roll joints with tobacco and cannabis together. Many people also like to brew coffee when indulging in cannabis. Both of these substances act as stimulants to the nervous system. Smoking several joints loaded with tobacco could very well be at the root cause of any shaking that might occur. If this happens often, it’s best to use far less tobacco in your joints, or cut it out altogether.

COLD ENVIRONMENT

Cannabis is known to slightly lower body temperature, making this another potential culprit when it comes to shaking. If you live in a cold region or the room you are in is large and chilly, you are very likely to feel some shaking after smoking large amounts of cannabis. Be sure to get cozy under a warm blanket or light-up the fireplace if this is a likely factor.

HOW TO COMBAT THE SHAKES

It’s important to know that the shakes are not something life-threatening, despite how uncomfortable they might feel. Just like other symptoms of consuming too much cannabis, such as increased heart rate, sweating, and nausea, the shakes will subside in a number of minutes, or at most, a few hours. However, it is definitely worth knowing how to combat them should they ever strike.

Dosing CBD may help with such a situation. CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is known to be an effective anxiolytic. Using a high-strength CBD oil or extract may help to bring your anxiety down slightly and relax you. This will be especially effective if your shakes are caused by nervousness. CBD is a CB1 receptor antagonist, which means it helps to mediate the psychoactive effects of THC.